Black Gynecologists Endorse Hormone Therapy for Menopause Symptoms

Doctors at a woman-owned Charlotte practice are also offering lifestyle advice to help women manage menopause symptoms.

Femelle Gynecology and Wellness is supporting updated guidance from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

In a news release, the organization said it now strongly recommends hormone therapy as the first-choice treatment for hot flashes, night sweats and other sleep-related problems. The Charlotte practice, formerly called Femwell Gynecology and Wellness, is amplifying that message during Menopause Awareness Month.

“We wholeheartedly support new data that backs hormone replacement therapy for the treatment of menopausal symptoms,” said Dr. E. Nicole Parson, a board-certified OB/GYN and co-founder of the practice. “As always, we would recommend that women talk with their doctors to explore the appropriateness of using these therapies based on their individual medical history.”

Menopause happens as estrogen and progesterone levels decline. It can bring mood changes, weight gain, hot flashes and vaginal dryness, and it is linked to a higher risk of osteoporosis and heart disease. In the United States, women typically reach menopause at age 51 or 52. AARP says Black women often experience it earlier, have more intense symptoms for longer periods and face larger gaps in care.

The transitional stage known as perimenopause usually begins in a woman’s mid- to late 40s, although some symptoms may show up earlier. On average, it lasts about four years.

In addition to hormone therapy, Femelle’s doctors recommend several lifestyle changes. Citing the Mayo Clinic, they advise a balanced, anti-inflammatory eating pattern such as the Mediterranean diet, along with enough calcium and vitamin D to support bone health. It can also help to identify hot flash triggers such as alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods and ultra-processed foods.

Giving up smoking and doing strength training several times a week may help protect bones and reduce symptoms. For women who cannot use hormone therapy, the practice points to FDA-approved non-hormonal options including fezolinetant, certain low-dose antidepressants and gabapentin.

Family nurse practitioner Solange Burton said women should know help is available. “Menopause is not a curse word, and life is not over when you begin feeling signs of menopause,” she said. “A common myth about menopause is that there is no help or treatment plans available. We’re here to help and restore confidence, one woman at a time.”

Parson and Dr. Tiffany Bates met in 2013 during medical residencies at East Carolina University. After years with major health systems in Charlotte, they opened Femelle’s first location in South Charlotte in early 2025. The practice combines traditional gynecology with lifestyle medicine and mental health support.